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Child Custody
Like most aspects of divorce, state laws determine custody of children.After a divorce, the courts consider both parents to have equals rights, as guardians of a child born to the marriage. Each parent has an equal right to custody. On this page you will find articles about how custody is decided, state laws pertaining to custody and other issues surrounding child custody.
What is a Guardian Ad Litem?
A Guardian Ad Litem is someone, usually an attorney appointed by the court to represent the best interest of the child during a custody dispute. If the court is concerned that the child’s best interest in not being taken into consideration by the parents, it will appoint a Guardian Ad Litem.
Different Types of Child Custody
Child custody issues are confusing because the laws and the language used vary from state to state.
What is Joint Custody?
Joint custody is the term used to describe a situation where both parents legally share decisions regarding the up-bringing of their child. Joint Custody is the most common form of custody awarded after divorce
The Difference Between Sole Legal Custody and Sole Physical Custody
One parent can be awarded either sole legal custody or sole physical custody during the divorce process.
The Difference Between Physical Custody and Joint Physical Custody
Parents going through the divorce process may be given either physical custody or joint physical custody.[/
The Difference Between Legal Custody and Joint Legal Custody
Legal custody of a child means a parent has the right to make all decisions concerning their child’s upbringing. Joint legal custody means both parents have an equal, legal right when making decisions concerning their child’s upbringing.
How Can I Prepare For A Child Custody Evaluation?
Tips for preparing for a child custody evaluation.
The Purpose of a Child Custody Evaluation
The courts typically apply a "best interest of the child" standard when doing a child custody evaluation
New Florida Custody Laws
Effective October 1, 2008 new Florida custody law has abolished the use of the words "custody" and "visitation" in all family law actions.
Common Questions about Child Custody and Visitation
Courts frequently award at least some aspects of custody to both parents, called "joint custody."
An Explanation of the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act
The Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction Act is an important federal law pertaining to child custody issues if you live in a different state from your child/children.
The Parental Kidnapping Prevention Act
The Parental Kidnapping Prevention Act orders state authorities give full faith and credit to other states custody determinations, as long as those determinations were made in conformity with the provisions of the Parental Kidnapping Prevention Act.